How to use them
- Run a warm bath. Hot enough to soften the shell; most beads dissolve in a few minutes.
- Drop in three to five beads (check the pack).
- Swish the water once they've opened to spread the oil.
- Soak, pat dry, and take care getting out. It's still oil in the tub.
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What's inside
Most beads contain mineral oil or a light plant oil with fragrance. The shell is usually gelatin, which comes from animals, so most bath beads are not vegan. Vegan versions with plant-based shells exist but are harder to find. Check the label.
Are they safe for jetted tubs?
Generally no. Gelatin shells and oil can gum up whirlpool pumps and lines. Use them only in ordinary tubs, or with the jets off, as your manual allows.
Bath beads vs bath oil vs bath bombs
- Beads: pre-portioned oil, decorative, gentle. Not much oil per bead.
- Bottled bath oil: more control, more oil, better value.
- Bath bombs: fizz from baking soda and citric acid. Some contain oils, but they're mostly about colour and theatre.
Storage
Keep beads in a cool, dry place. Humidity and heat make gelatin sticky and can cause beads to fuse together, so a jar on a sunny bathroom windowsill isn't ideal. A sealed glass apothecary jar looks good and protects them.